An effort to keep the homeless community warm is underway as temperatures fell below freezing in parts of Central Florida on Wednesday.

The first cold-snap of the season has already arrived, and the Central Florida Coalition for the Homeless is launching a coat and blanket drive to keep the homeless safe.

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“For some of these people out here on the streets it’s going to be hard on them. I’ve got to work in this stuff today, it’s not fun. Yesterday was all damp and wet so I was soaked all morning and I was freezing,” said Chris Star, who is homeless.

The coalition is asking for coat and blanket donations for women, men and children who are living on the streets of Orlando.

Anyone willing to donate items can drop them off at the Coalition for the Homeless at 639 West Central Boulevard in Orlando.

Meanwhile, the Florida Division of Emergency Management is urging residents to take precautions in the cold air, especially Marion County residents who are headed into below-freezing temperatures.

Residents are reminded to protect people, plants, and pipes and to practice fire safety.

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Safety officials said there tends to be more fires during cold snaps. Residents are urged to be careful when using space heaters and be sure to keep them away from curtains and furniture.